Mexican rice recipe

Mexican Rice Recipe: A Perfect Side Dish for Every Meal

ByJulia Child

If you’re looking to add a vibrant, flavorful side dish to your dinner table, then look no further than the classic Mexican Rice. This aromatic, colorful dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and it’s incredibly easy to make right at home. With its light, fluffy texture and rich tomato flavor, it pairs perfectly with a wide variety of main courses, from tacos and fajitas to grilled meats or even beans. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple recipe, offer some expert tips, and even give you a breakdown of how to store and reheat it. Plus, we’ll discuss the nutritional information to help you feel good about enjoying this dish.

Mexican Rice Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 ¾ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and ensures the rice cooks up fluffy.
  2. Cook the Rice: In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice becomes lightly golden brown. This step will add a rich flavor to the rice.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant.
  4. Add the Tomato Sauce and Spices: Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes until the tomato sauce thickens slightly and the spices become fragrant.
  5. Simmer the Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. The rice should absorb all the liquid, and the grains should be tender.
  6. Optional Step – Add Peas: If you’re using peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will allow them to warm through and add a pop of color and flavor.
  7. Fluff and Serve: After the rice is cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an added zing.

Recipe Notes:

  • Rice Texture: If you prefer a slightly softer rice, you can add an extra ¼ cup of broth while cooking. This will give the rice a creamier texture.
  • Broth Options: For a more flavorful rice, use homemade chicken or vegetable broth instead of store-bought for an extra depth of flavor.
  • Adding Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or carrots, to enhance the dish. Simply add them along with the onions and garlic.
  • Make It Spicy: If you like a kick, try adding a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for some heat.

Time and Serving:

  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Serving Size: This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish. You can easily double the recipe to serve more.

Storage Instructions:

Mexican rice is great for leftovers! Here’s how to store it properly:

  • Refrigerator: Allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the rice. Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore its moisture.
  • Reheating: To reheat, add a tablespoon of water or broth to the rice and cover it while heating on low in a pan. Stir occasionally until fully heated.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Sugar: 3g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used, like the type of broth or the addition of peas.

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect:

  • Use a Non-Stick Pan: To prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan, using a non-stick saucepan is recommended, especially when you’re sautéing the rice.
  • Don’t Lift the Lid: While the rice is simmering, avoid lifting the lid. This keeps the steam inside, which helps the rice cook evenly.

How to Serve:

Mexican rice is versatile and can be paired with almost any Mexican meal. Serve it as a side with tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or grilled chicken. It can also be used as a base for rice bowls or mixed with beans for a delicious vegetarian dish.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

  • Large saucepan with lid: To cook the rice evenly.
  • Wooden spoon: For stirring the rice and spices.
  • Measuring cups: To ensure you add the right amounts of rice and broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will take longer to cook. Brown rice requires about 40-45 minutes to cook compared to white rice’s 20 minutes. You may need to add extra liquid as well.

To add more heat, include chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the spices. You can also top the rice with hot sauce when serving.

Absolutely! Simply follow the same recipe, adding the rinsed rice, tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings to the rice cooker. Let it cook until the rice is tender.

Yes, you can make it ahead of time! Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat it with a bit of liquid for the best texture.

Similar Posts